Augmented Reality has mostly found its niche as a way to bring virtual characters to life through a mobile device. But a Japanese developer has found a more clever use. Crossfader's AR-MAPS app syncs Apple or Google Maps to a live video feed from your iPhone's camera, so you can visualize how you're oriented, and easily locate destinations.

Using the device's GPS, compass, and gyroscope, the app automatically switches between a split-screen map/video view of your surroundings, or just a flat map depending on if you're holding your device vertically or horizontally. And not only does it let you search for a specific address or landmark, it uses augmented reality to overlay markers on the video feed so all you need to do is spin around until it highlights your destination. And best of all, it's currently available free of charge on the iTunes App Store, providing yet another alternative to Apple's Maps offering.